Mark Hunter MP

Local MP backs bill to end Fuel Poverty

January 19, 2009 1:15 PM

Mark backs Bill to end fuel poverty

Mark Hunter, MP for the Cheadle Constituency has given his full support to Liberal Democrat colleague David Heath (MP for Somerton and Frome) in bringing forward a parliamentary Bill aimed at ending fuel poverty.

The Fuel Poverty Bill will bring in two simple measures which will benefit millions of people across the UK:

• A major energy efficiency programme to bring existing homes up to the current energy efficiency levels enjoyed by modern homes.

Speaking after the launch of the Bill Mr Hunter said: "These proposals will be great for the environment whilst also making a real difference to pensioners and others struggling to pay their energy bills. The plans will significantly help an estimated five million households faced with the terrible choice between heating and eating this winter.

"The bill would also provide a much-needed boost to the local construction industry struggling in the recession.

"These proposals deserve the support of politicians from all parties, and I hope that Labour and Conservative MPs will give the bill their support when it is debated in the House of Commons."

The measures in the bill have received the backing of many major charities and campaign groups, including Help the Aged, Friends of the Earth, Consumer Focus and the Association for the Conservation of Energy.